Books

Joe Willmore is the author of four professional books.

No Magic Bullet,

Published by ASTD Press (2009), looks at why organizations fall for fads and how to really improve performance and fix problems (hint: it isn’t rocket science but it does mean moving beyond the “flavor of the month” solutions). An ideal book for both trainers as well as managers and executives, it debunks a lot of current organizational practice as well as providing a clear roadmap for generating real improvement and effective results.

“No Magic Bullet is the Real Deal! This book provides wise, proven, and practical guidance as to what works, and what doesn’t, when your goal is to achieve sustained, enhanced employee performance. The many practical techniques described in this book can be put into action immediately.”–Dana Gaines Robinson; Coauthor of Performance Consulting, Zap the Gaps and Strategic Business Partner

Job Aid Basics,

Published by ASTD Press (2006), shows readers how to develop effective job aids that improve ￼performance and provide a great ROI. In a straightforward, no-nonsense approach, this books lays out the types of job aids and clearly explains both how to develop effective and coherent job aids as well as what type is appropriate for what situation. This is a very helpful tool for both instructional designers as well as technical professionals and front-line performers.

“There is no better way to reduce training costs and increase training effectiveness than a well constructed job aid, and no one better to explain how to do it right than Joe Willmore. This book is a must for every trainer’s bookshelf.”–George Piskurich, Consultant and Author of Training Basics and Classroom Facilitation: The Art and Science

Performance Basics,

Published by ASTD Press (2004), provides a practical introduction to performance improvement. With plenty of hands-on examples, this book is great for people starting out on their performance journey or trying to move from the theory and models to practical application.

“This book is the best introduction I have seen to the field of performance consulting; it’s easy to read, practical and complete. After reading it, you will have a clear mental model of the field and straightforward tools for getting started. I can’t think of a better resource for someone new to this arena. I will use it with all of my new employees.”–Paul H. Elliott, Ph.D., President, Exemplary Performance

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Managing Virtual Teams,

Published by Spiros Business Guides in the UK (2003), examines the challenges of managing dispersed workers and building effective virtual teams. This is a practical look at virtual work that recognizes that there are many different types of virtual settings with distinct dynamics to each. The book looks at managing, training, working and facilitating in virtual environments.

“This book is a must-read for anyone who works with virtual teams in any capacity, whether it be as a member, leader, manager, facilitator, coach, or consultant. Willmore provides real-life examples and in-depth scenarios, along with helpful tools and checklists. For instance, he concludes every chapter with questions for consideration as a way to facilitate reflection and learning. I particularly appreciated the matrix that laid out the relationship between different types of technology and various group work activities. The book covers the fundamentals without being too basic, beginning with how to set up a virtual team to building trust and cohesion to management and virtual learning. The information about the values, benefits, and distinctions of virtual teams from face to face teams is useful for anyone attempting to champion this mode of working.”–Kathryn Gaines, President, Leading Pace LLC